Atrium

Overview

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In ancient Roman times, the atrium was the central open area of a house, but today the term atrium is typically associated with commercial and public buildings including offices, health care facilities, libraries, hotels, courthouses, educational facilities, etc. The atrium space type includes glazed courtyard spaces and multistoried spaces. Atria are typically used as key architectural features in main entries, public circulation areas or as special destinations within a building. Atrium design often involves skylights and generous glazing areas that provide an infusion of natural light which make them prominent building areas well suited to serve ceremonial and social functions.

Space Attributes

The atrium space type requires flexibility, durable finishes, attention to regular maintenance, and special HVAC systems and lighting. Typical features of atrium space types include the list of applicable design objectives elements as outlined below. For a complete list and definitions of the design objectives within the context of whole building design, click on the titles below.

Design appropriate spaces for the unique requirements of plant species, including attention to lighting, temperature, and air flow. Specify plants with comfort levels similar to occupant comfort levels.

Accommodate flexibility and storage of furniture and equipment for ceremonial events and exhibits.

Design for maintainability of hard to reach areas, such as re-lamping of high light fixtures and periodic cleaning of dust gathering surfaces. Consider use of portable lifts over scaffolding.

Design as an informal meeting space where intellectual/social exchange can take place.

Specify durable finishes to accommodate maximum pedestrian traffic.

Atrium spaces can vary from simple to complex geometries. (See Atria Systems for more information.)

Atria can be used as light courts. Utilize daylighting to reduce energy use through skylights and window walls.

Coordinate the glazing patterns with sustainability goals and requirements for daylighting within green building rating systems.

Plan for the maintenance of the glazing system so light levels do not get diminished and views are not obstructed.

Create a vertical "chimney" effect with low intakes and high outlets to facilitate natural ventilation.

Use durable materials as well as materials that meet sustainability requirements to reduce maintenance and provide a healthy interior environment.

The Bayfront Medical Plaza in St. Petersburg, Florida is an example of a two-sided atrium, a simple form which sits in the corner between two wings of a medical office building. See the case study on this project in Atria Systems.

The Burj Al Arab in Dubai has a 180 m (590 ft) tall atrium.

Relevant Codes and Standards

The following agencies and organizations have developed codes and standards affecting the design of atria. Note that the codes and standards are minimum requirements. Architects, engineers, and consultants should consider exceeding the applicable requirements whenever possible:

Others

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